The
Gibraltar Hotel was once Paris’ shining glory, a testament to its
growth. Built in 1915 by Richard H. Blyth, Edward Buford Norment and
B.P. Bailey, it accommodated passengers on the St. Louis-Dallas rail
line – a time when towns had street cars and real train service. Though
damaged in the 1916 fire, the owners were optimistic enough to add
a seventh story upon restoration. But like most downtown hotels, it
fell out of favor with the traveling public, who wanted their lodgings
close and convenient to the highways.

The
Gibraltar Hotel today

Photo courtesy Robin Jett, 8-23-03

The hotel has had numerous owners since then, and has stood empty
sentry over downtown since the late 1970s. Gutted and in various states
of decay, the hotel has lost much of its past beauty. One owner even
committed suicide in 1985, although if the ghosts of the Gibraltar
Hotel had anything to do with that is anyone’s guess. In 2004, Don
“Pinky” Wilson, a local businessman, took ownership and intends to
make the old building into a senior center and condominium complex.
Hope springs eternal…